You don’t have to thank a veteran on Veterans Day. Veterans aren’t seeking thanks or expecting you to fully grasp their experiences. Instead, give them the gift of seeing their fellow citizens live lives that reflect the value of the service and sacrifice they and their families have made for us.

Our veterans and their families are more than just warriors; they are the soul, the essential fabric and thread that built this nation. Courage, Conviction and Compassion are just the beginning of their attributes. They have defended our homeland, upheld democratic principles, and secured our freedoms. Their service, reaching far beyond the battlefield, has paved the way for a future of peace, liberty, and security. The freedoms we often take for granted are the fruits of their focused American values.

So, don’t thank a Veteran today, but every morning when you wake, show a veteran your respect for their sacrifices by being the best citizen and patriot you can be. If you’re unsure how to embody patriotism, ask a veteran, and they will show you.